Words to Live By
Couple Leaves Planned Gift to Help 'Open Doors' for Students
"Do what you can do." Those are Steven Harvey's wise words. After 30 years of giving, Steven and Tami Harvey did what they could do for Ferris State University: a $150,000 life insurance policy. The generous planned gift is a token of the couple's love for Ferris.
As a 1982 College of Business graduate, Steven was part of Omicron Delta Kappa and Student Government, leadership roles that have made him a lifelong champion of Ferris. Post graduation, his involvement on the Alumni Board kept him in contact with the University for many years. Before his service on the board, he was honored as a Ferris Distinguished Alumnus, a fitting counterpart to the FSU Man of the Year award he won while at school.
The Harveys' commitment to the University has only grown stronger over the years. It was a logical next step to establish their legacy gift. Steven and Tami believe in the values of Ferris and want to support all aspects of the University. To make the most impact, the couple intends for the gift to be directed into an unrestricted fund, which allows us to direct gifts to support our most critical needs.
"A gift like the Harveys' is so powerful. It allows the University to utilize the funds for the best use," says Bob Murray, associate vice president for advancement.
The legacy gift will have a lasting impact on the future of Ferris and its students. "I expect it to help students attend Ferris, keep their debt modest and improve campus," Steven says, trusting in the direction Ferris has established under President David Eisler's leadership. He expressed his respect for the scope and placement rate that Ferris has achieved.
"Ferris prepared me well," Steven says, "and my degree opened doors I never imagined." Ferris' mission to open doors of opportunities for its students gave him the foundation he needed to succeed at BDO Seidman, LLP. After 20 years at the company, he retired in July 2016 and began the next chapter of his life.
"Do what you can do," Steven says. "Not everyone can make a financial commitment, but stay involved in Ferris and give your time if that's all you can."
Like the Harveys, you can create a planned gift that supports the University and provides opportunity for students. Contact The Ferris Foundation at (231) 591-2365 or FerrisFoundation@ferris.edu for more information.